Review Blog

Aug 13 2008

Marty's shadow by John Heffernan

Read by Stephen Pease
Louis Braille Audio, 2008. ISBN 9781742120355.
3 CDs, 3 3/4 hours.
Scholastic, 2007.
(Age 13+) Recommended. This is a finely wrought tale about 16 year old
Marty, a loner, resentful and riddled with doubts and terrifying
memories. Marty has the care of his young brother Jack, as the boys'
father is often working away. Left to their own devices by a largely
uncaring and neglectful father since their mother had left, the two
boys look after each other. Marty however, increasingly finds that his
life is unbearable as he fights to remember whether his dreams about
what has happened at the old quarry are real or imagined.

Stephen Pease's wonderful reading recreates the voices of the solid and
well-developed characters in an unforgettable story. Marty's angst and
his descent into shadows come to life as he battles with eerie memories
from the past. Jack, youthful and less damaged by his mother's
departure, comes across as an optimistic and very likeable young boy.
The angry and grim man who is Marty's father grips the imagination and
leaves the listener in fear for the boys.

Heffernan skillfully introduces his refugee family in the story giving
Nariah a central role in befriending Marty and helping him to realise
that his love of trees and skill with plants is worthwhile. Pease's
reading brings an extra resonance to the listener's understanding of
what it is like to be newcomers in town and to be subjected to
prejudice and harassment.

This audio pack would be a welcome addition to a library collection for
its powerful and unforgettable story. It should also have appeal for
reluctant readers.
Pat Pledger